Our Privacy/Cookie Policy contains detailed information about the types of cookies & related technology on our site, and some ways to opt out. By using the site, you agree to the uses of cookies and other technology as outlined in our Policy, and to our Terms of Use.

Culinary Uses of Strawberries

Sauces and Syrups

Strawberries can be combined with sugar and reduced over heat to make syrup. The syrup adds strawberry flavor to desserts such as cakes, pies and ice cream. Strawberry syrup can also be served with breakfast items like pancakes and waffles. Chefs use strawberry sauce to add color to gourmet dessert plates.

Dips and Salsas

Combine cream cheese, nuts and other fruit with strawberries to create dessert-like fruit dips. For a walk on the wild side, mix strawberries with herbs and spices to create salsas and dips. Strawberry salsa is made by combining the berry with such ingredients as onions and cilantro. The salsa can be served with chips as an alternative to traditional salsa dip or used as a salad topping.

Baked Goods

Crushed and sweetened strawberries are the star of the show on the dessert shortcake that is named for them. Cooked strawberries and strawberry preserves can be used as filling for pastries such as danishes and doughnuts. Raw strawberries can be sliced to fill pies and cobblers. The fruit can also be added to cake and muffin recipes, along with strawberry extract, to flavor baked goods.

Smoothies

Smoothies can be made with fresh or frozen strawberries. Such smoothies contain the fruit blended with ice, milk, yogurt and other fruit juices. Bananas, fresh mint leaves, protein powder and pineapple are common ingredients added to strawberry smoothies to enhance flavor and nutrition content.

Jams and Jellies

One of the best ways to preserve fresh strawberries is to make jam and jelly. Strawberry jam and jelly are made by mashing and cooking the fruit with sugar, pectin and lemon juice. The cooked mixture is poured into sterile canning jars and processed in boiling water. Strawberry jam can be eaten the traditional way, as a bread topping, or used as an ingredient for other dishes.